Rashard Mendenhall 2008 Fantasy Projections – Pittsburgh Steelers

Going into the 2008 NFL draft, many draft experts thought that Rashard Mendenhall would be the second running back taken. However, Mendenhall fell in the draft and wasn’t selected until the Pittsburgh Steelers selected him with the 23rd pick.

Not many experts expected Pittsburgh to select a running back – then again, not many experts thought Mendenhall would drop that far. Since the Steelers don’t have many holes on their roster, they decided to go with the best player available. Mendenhall at 23 was great value.

Willie Parker has been the Steelers’ main running back for a few years now and he’s carried a large load during that time frame. The Steelers are hoping that Mendenhall will be able to come in and provide a one-two punch at running back. Mendenhall, who is 20-years-old, is a strongly built runner who can gain the tough yards.

Parker is recovering from a broken fibula but despite his injury, most people around the team expect that Parker will hold onto his starting gig. Mendenhall will be the backup, but should get plenty of action.

Mendenhall’s fantasy value likely won’t be very high in his rookie season. Parker should get a majority of the carries. However, Mendenhall could become the team’s goal line back and would be next in line if Parker is to get injured. If you draft Parker, Mendenhall is player that you must handcuff to Parker.

Photo: Newscom